COVID-19 Task Force Tackles Testing, Health Disparities, and Physician Protection

Being a physician in the District in the 21st century means being on the front line of the most pressing public health issues in the world. In our small geographic boundaries, physicians help address issue found in every state all in one area. The issues are too lengthy to list on one webpage but physicians are on the front lines of addressing health issues for all District residents.

News, Statements, and Testimony on Health Equity Issues

25th Council session information coming soon.

COVID-19 Task Force Tackles Testing, Health Disparities, and Physician Protection

Apr 24, 2020, 07:43 AM by MSDC Staff

In its second meeting, the MSDC COVID-19 Task Force issued recommendations on "re-opening" the District, COVID-19 testing, and PPE.

The MSDC COVID-19 Task Force held its second meeting on Thursday and immediately discussed the major issues around the public health emergency.

The task force, chaired by Raymond Scalettar, MD, was created by the MSDC Board to carefully consider major issues related to COVID-19 and if needed issue guidance and recommendations.

The task force issued the following recommendations and guidance last night:

MSDC will push to involve physicians in the District re-opening plans
MSDC will create telemedicine and testing guidance for DC physicians
MSDC will survey members to see if the PPE supply is adequate and what actions MSDC needs to take to ensure adequate supply
Members and staff should proactively share and distribute MSDC's infographic on lifestyle recommendations to combat COVID-19 complications, especially in Wards 7 and 8
MSDC will actively promote District medical loan forgiveness programs

The next COVID-19 Task Force meeting is Thursday, April 30 at 5 PM. Those wishing to participate or observe may contact Robert Hay Jr. for an invitation.

Sample of Health Equity Legislation MSDC Tracked

Student Access to Treatment Amendment Act (B23-467)

What does it say? The bill allows for the administration of medicinal marijuana in schools as well as allows students to bring sunscreen to schools and apply it without a prescription.

MSDC position: MSDC supports the language permitting sunscreen application in schools

Current status: A win for DC physicians and public health! The legislation passed the Council in February and was signed by the Mayor. Previous temporary and emergency legislation permitted students to use sunscreen at schools this school year already.

Electronic Medical Order for Scope of Treatment Registry Amendment Act (B23-261)

What does it say? The bill requires DC Health to establish an electronic Medical Order for Scope of Treatment registry (eMOST).

MSDC position: MSDC supports this legislation to more easily allow patients to make their treatment orders known.

Current status: A win for the physician community and our patients! The Council passed the bill in December and the Mayor signed it into law on January 16, 2020.

Healthy Beverage Choices Amendment Act (B23-495)

What does it say? The bill would implement a 1.5 cent per ounce tax on the distribution of "sugary" beverages. The money collected from the tax would establish a Healthy People, Healthy Places Open Spaces Grant Program.

MSDC position: MSDC sent a letter to Council Chair Mendelson asking for a hearing to discuss all of the issues around a beverage tax.

Current status: The bill was introduced October 8, 2019 and referred to the Committee on Business and Economic Development and the Committee of the Whole.